Premises accidents, including slip and falls and trip and falls, frequently happen when property owners do not take care of their premises. They may fail to repair property defects, warn about hazards, or clean up spills promptly, causing an accident.
If you sustained injuries in a recent premises accident, the experienced Charleston premises liability attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can assist with your case. We can handle every step of the claims-filing and litigation processes for you and work to maximize your overall monetary award.
For a free case evaluation with a knowledgeable Charleston premises liability attorney, please contact us online today.
Charleston Premises Liability Guide
- Why Choose Us for Your Legal Needs?
- How Much Is My Charleston Premises Accident Case Worth?
- Common Locations for Premises Accidents in Charleston
- Types of Premises Accidents in Charleston
- Common Injuries in Charleston Premises Accidents
- Fighting the Insurance Company after a Premises Accident in Charleston
- Important Steps to Take after a Premises Accident in Charleston
- Talk to an Experienced Charleston Premises Liability Lawyer Today
Why Choose Us for Your Legal Needs?
Premises accidents can result in debilitating injuries, especially if you strike the ground with a significant amount of force.
The skilled Charleston premises liability attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can file a claim or lawsuit to pursue the compensation you deserve. Unlike many personal injury law firms, we are not afraid to take your case to trial if the property owner’s insurance company refuses to compensate you fairly.
We have a strong track record of successfully resolving premises accident cases for our clients through settlement and litigation. Moreover, our skilled lawyers limit their annual caseloads, allowing them to devote their full time and attention to each case.
You can review some of our most recent client testimonials by clicking here.
Our office currently has locations in Myrtle Beach, Aiken, Murrells Inlet, and Columbia. Let us help you secure the favorable compensation and justice you deserve for your premises-accident injuries.
How Much Is My Charleston Premises Accident Case Worth?
Determining the value of a premises liability case in Charleston involves considering various factors. Primarily, it hinges on the extent of damages that the victim suffered. These damages may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Medical expenses cover the costs of treatment, rehabilitation, and any future medical needs resulting from the premises incident. This includes hospital bills, doctor’s visits, prescription medications, therapy sessions, and medical equipment necessary for recovery.
- Lost income compensation is available for earnings lost due to the injury. If an injury prevents the victim from working temporarily or permanently, they may be entitled to compensation for lost earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering refer to the physical and emotional distress that result from the injury. This non-economic compensation accounts for the pain that the victim experienced during and after the incident, as well as any long-term effects on their quality of life.
- Property damage compensation applies if the incident damaged the victim’s personal property. This can include vehicles, clothing, electronics, or any other belongings that sustained harm due to the premises liability accident.
Additionally, punitive damages may be available in cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly egregious or reckless. The main purpose of these damages is to punish the at-fault party and deter similar wrongful conduct in the future.
The worth of a premises liability case depends on the unique circumstances surrounding the incident. Factors such as the severity of the injury, the effect on the victim’s life, and the at-fault party’s degree of negligence all play a role in determining the final compensation amount.
At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we will aggressively negotiate on your behalf and do everything possible to maximize your settlement offer or litigation result.
Common Locations for Premises Accidents in Charleston
Premises accidents in Charleston, South Carolina, often occur due to property owner negligence, with certain locations being more prone to incidents than others. Among the most common are:
- Grocery Stores – Slip and fall accidents are prevalent in grocery stores, especially in areas where spills are not promptly cleaned or floors are left wet without proper warning signs. Improperly maintained aisles or defective shopping carts can also contribute to premises accidents in these locations.
- Local Restaurants and Bars – These establishments – including those downtown – can be hazardous due to slippery floors, uneven surfaces, poorly lit areas, or overcrowded spaces.
- Shopping Malls – With numerous stores, escalators, and crowded walkways, shopping malls – including Citadel Mall – pose various risks. Accidents often occur due to poorly maintained premises, inadequate security, or malfunctioning equipment like escalators and elevators.
- Hotels and Resorts – Premises accidents in hotels and resorts can range from slip and falls around pool areas to injuries resulting from defective furniture or inadequate security measures. Poorly maintained amenities or negligent staff can also contribute to premises accidents in these locations.
- Parking Lots and Garages – These areas are prone to accidents due to inadequate lighting, potholes, uneven surfaces, or negligent driving behaviors. Inadequate security measures may also lead to incidents like assaults or vehicle break-ins.
- Apartment Complexes – Common hazards include poorly lit stairwells, defective handrails, uneven walkways, or inadequate security measures. Landlord negligence in maintaining safe premises can lead to accidents and injuries for tenants or visitors.
- Public Parks and Recreation Areas – Accidents in Charleston parks and recreation areas – including Hampton Park and Melton Peter Demetre Park – often involve slips and falls on poorly maintained paths, playground equipment injuries due to lack of maintenance, or accidents resulting from defective or outdated facilities.
- Construction Sites – Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments, but accidents can occur due to inadequate safety measures, negligence in enforcing safety protocols, or failure to warn visitors of potential dangers.
Property owners' negligence in maintaining safe premises can lead to accidents and injuries in various Charleston locations. At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we can investigate the circumstances of your premises accident and determine your legal options for recovering compensation.
Types of Premises Accidents in Charleston
Negligent premises owners in Charleston often contribute to various types of accidents on their property. Among the most common are:
- Slip and Falls – Slip and fall accidents occur when a person slips or trips on a hazardous surface, such as wet floors, uneven pavement, or debris left in walkways. Failing to maintain safe walking surfaces or to promptly clean up spills can lead to these accidents.
- Trip and Falls – Similar to slip and falls, trip and fall accidents happen when someone trips over an object or uneven surface, such as loose carpeting, protruding wires, or broken steps. Negligent property maintenance, inadequate lighting, or lack of warning signs may contribute to these incidents.
- Falls from Heights – Falls from heights can occur due to inadequate safety measures, such as missing handrails on stairs or balconies, unstable scaffolding on construction sites, or poorly maintained ladders. Property owners have a duty to provide proper safeguards to prevent falls from elevated surfaces.
- Swimming Pool Accidents – Property owners with swimming pools must adhere to safety regulations to prevent accidents, such as drownings, slip and falls on wet surfaces, or injuries from defective diving boards or pool equipment. Negligence in maintaining pool fences, supervision, or warning signs can lead to tragic outcomes.
- Dog Bites – Dog owners are responsible for controlling their pets and preventing attacks on visitors or passersby. Negligent owners who fail to restrain aggressive dogs or warn others of potential dangers can be held liable for injuries resulting from dog bites.
- Assaults and Criminal Activity – Property owners have a duty to provide adequate security measures to protect visitors from foreseeable criminal acts. Negligence in providing adequate lighting, surveillance cameras, or security personnel can contribute to assaults, robberies, or other criminal activities on the premises.
- Electrical Accidents – Faulty wiring, exposed electrical components, or inadequate maintenance of electrical systems can lead to accidents such as electric shocks, fires, or electrocutions. Property owners must ensure that electrical systems are up to code and regularly inspected to prevent these hazards.
If you suffered injuries in one of these types of premises accidents, the experienced attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can file a claim with the property owner’s insurance company on your behalf and negotiate for favorable settlement compensation.
Common Injuries in Charleston Premises Accidents
Accidents due to property owner negligence in Charleston can result in various injuries. Among the most common are:
- Fractures and Broken Bones – Slip and fall accidents or trips over uneven surfaces can lead to fractures or broken bones, particularly in the wrists, arms, ankles, or hips. The impact of the fall or the force of the injury can cause bones to break, requiring medical attention and possibly surgery to repair.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries often occur in slip and fall accidents when the body twists or lands awkwardly, causing damage to the soft tissues. Recovery may involve physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility.
- Head Injuries – Falls from heights or slips on hard surfaces can result in head injuries ranging from concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even seemingly minor head injuries can have serious consequences, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, or long-term neurological issues.
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries – Falls, trips, or impacts on the back can cause spinal cord injuries, leading to paralysis, loss of sensation, or chronic pain. These injuries can significantly affect quality of life and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Cuts and Lacerations – Broken glass, sharp edges, or protruding objects can cause cuts and lacerations in premises accidents. Depending on the severity, these injuries may require stitches, wound care, or surgery to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Burns – Electrical malfunctions, hot surfaces, or chemical spills on the premises can result in burns of varying degrees. Severe burns may require skin grafts and long-term medical care to manage pain and prevent complications.
In addition to physical injuries, premises accidents can cause emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event can have lasting psychological effects that may require therapy or counseling to address.
If you suffered one or more of these injuries in your premises accident, the skilled attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can handle the legal components of your claim while you focus on recovering from your injuries.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Premises Accident in Charleston
When advocating for you in a Charleston premises liability case, the legal team at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers will employ several strategies to fight the insurance company and secure the fair settlement compensation you deserve:
- Thorough Case Preparation – We meticulously gather evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and accident scene documentation, to build a strong case supporting your claim. This comprehensive approach strengthens our negotiating position.
- Legal Experience – Our team is well-versed in premises liability laws and regulations in South Carolina. With our in-depth understanding of legal nuances, we can effectively navigate settlement negotiations on your behalf and counter any unfair tactics that the insurance company tries to use against you.
- Effective Communication – We skillfully communicate with insurance adjusters, advocating for your best interests. Our negotiation tactics are grounded in a clear understanding of the extent of your injuries, the effects on your life, and the compensation you rightfully deserve.
- Strategic Presentation of Evidence – We present compelling evidence to support your premises liability claim during negotiations. This may include medical documentation, expert opinions, and photographs or videos of the accident scene. By showcasing the full extent of your damages, we bolster our argument for fair compensation.
- Persistence and Diligence – We are unwavering in our commitment to securing your best possible outcome. Our team remains persistent and diligent throughout the negotiation process, leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice on your behalf.
By entrusting your premises liability case to us, you can rest assured that we will vigorously fight the insurance company on your behalf, leveraging our experience, resources, and dedication to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Important Steps to Take after a Premises Accident in Charleston
If you’ve sustained injuries in a premises accident in Charleston, it’s crucial to take several key steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve:
- Report the Incident – Immediately inform the property owner or manager about the accident. Document the details of the incident, including the date, time, and location, and obtain a copy of the incident report, if possible.
- Seek Ongoing Medical Attention – Follow through with all treatment recommendations from your medical providers and attend all medical appointments until a facility formally discharges you from care.
- Retain Records – Keep copies of all relevant documentation, including medical records, bills, receipts for expenses related to your injuries, and correspondence with insurance companies.
- Consult with an Experienced Premises Liability Lawyer in Charleston – At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we can assess the details of your case, advise you on your legal rights, and guide you through the process of pursuing compensation for your premises-accident losses.
Talk to an Experienced Charleston Premises Liability Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love suffered injuries in a Charleston premises accident, always consult an experienced lawyer immediately. The skilled legal team at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can investigate your circumstances, take the appropriate legal steps on your behalf, and pursue the compensation you need.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Charleston personal injury lawyer, please immediately contact us online or at (843) 466-4444.
